Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Kansas voters in 2022 rejected the “Value Them Both” amendment that, if enacted, would have declared that the state constitution does not include a right to abortion. In the two legislative sessions since, lawmakers have tried to pass new restrictions on abortion, some of which have been blocked by judicial rulings. Are you satisfied with the current laws and restrictions on abortion in Kansas? Do you think access should be expanded in any way? Do you support new restrictions on abortion? And if so, what kind?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
District 11
Karen Thurlow (Democratic)
I fully support a woman’s right to choose and will protect our constitutional rights as the overwhelming majority of Kansans voted for in August 2022.
Legislators are charged with representing their constituents, not furthering a personal agenda. Last session, more than 20 new bills were introduced aiming to hinder access. New restrictions, such as requiring a woman to explain why she’s having an abortion, are stepping stones to further eroding our reproductive rights.
We need to make sure that pregnant women are safe in our state — and we need to protect birth control and IVF. Many people are under the impression that this issue was settled following the vote in August 2022. I can assure you that it is not. Reproductive rights remain on the ballot, and I trust women to make their own healthcare decisions.
Kellie Warren (Republican, incumbent)
The voters spoke on this issue in August 2022, and I respect that decision. Good people can have a different perspective on the right to an abortion and there is common ground that can be found, such as preventing tax dollars going to abortion, stopping late-term abortion, and for parental consent for minors.
I support exceptions to accommodate heartbreaking and difficult situations such as rape, incest, and to save the life of the mother. I am committed to ensuring women receive the emergency care they desperately need for ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, and other health complications. Any advertisement that tells you otherwise or that I have advocated for a ban on abortion is completely false.
I also believe we can do more to help women who decide to have a child when facing challenging life circumstances, such as getting Medicaid in the hands of women who need it and improving access to affordable childcare. We need to reduce the cost of living and make it easier for younger families and single parents to succeed so they can afford to raise their children.
